Monday, Dec 2

Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 4:6 (ESV) – “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

Isaiah 60:1 (ESV) – “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.”

John 1:4-5 (ESV) – “In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

Message: During dinner one night, I shared my concerns with Chris about the evil in the world and my struggle to understand God’s plan. Sometimes, I get overwhelmed by these issues and long for Jesus to return and end all suffering. Thankfully, Chris often knows just the right thing to say. He reminded me that darkness exists so that light can shine more brightly.

Chris said, “Consider a lamp outside during the day; it’s nearly invisible, lacking purpose in the bright sunlight. In contrast, when surrounded by darkness, a lamp draws attention and provides hope.” This analogy, although well-known from sermons and Scripture, resonated deeply with me and eased my worries. It echoed Paul’s description of the gospel as a light piercing through the darkness of unbelief, drawing on Isaiah’s prophetic words and those in John 1:4-5.

On his journey to Damascus, Paul experienced a literal light from heaven that blinded him, leading to a profound transformation. This pivotal moment turned him into a key figure of the Apostolic Age and established him as an important role model for Christians today. This Christmas, think of someone in your life who needs God’s light. You never know how their encounter with that light could lead them to become a vital messenger of the gospel.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for shining Your light into our hearts through Jesus Christ, illuminating our lives with Your truth and grace. Help us to reflect that light to those around us, sharing the knowledge of Your glory and guiding others from darkness to the hope found in You. May our lives testify to Your love and lead many to seek You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Chris & Danielle Martin